Annual Wellness Examination

            The physical exam is the most important first step in determining an animal's health status.  Even with all the modern marvels of diagnostic tests and instrumentation, many diagnoses can be made based solely on the exam findings.  Veterinarians develop their ability to identify physical abnormalities even from the first year of their professional education.  Years of practice and honed senses enable us to evaluate our patients from head to tail in a matter of minutes.

             Certainly we are accustomed to seeing pets when they are symptomatic.  Yet the examination of the apparently healthy pet can be both revealing and rewarding.  Some diseases have a subtle onset with symptoms undetectable by the animal's caretaker. 

The veterinarians and staff at Murphy Road Animal Hospital recommend that pets receive a wellness exam at least annually if not twice a year.  Since animals age five to seven years for every human year, much can change in a short period.

            An exam can uncover numerous serious ailments.  I have found significant illnesses in patients that appeared otherwise healthy.  Some examples are heart murmurs and arrhythmias, glaucoma, urinary bladder stones, ear infections, dental hygiene problems such as gingivitis or broken teeth, and tumors of the skin, mouth, and abdomen. 

            As an advocate for optimal pet health, I recommend regular check-ups to ensure the best for your pet.  Make an appointment today for a wellness exam to ensure that you are doing your best to contribute to your pet's well being.

Michael Lamping, DVM

Murphy Road Animal Hospital